Merkel RX Helix
Merkel Jagd- und Sportwaffen · Rifle · In Production · 2010
Also known as: RX.Helix, Merkel Helix
Overview
The Merkel RX Helix is a German straight-pull bolt-action hunting rifle introduced in 2010. Its defining feature is a 1:2 transmission gearing that halves the linear bolt-handle travel, allowing exceptionally fast follow-up shots while the seven-lug rotary bolt head cycles entirely within a fully enclosed action housing. The rifle offers tool-free takedown and interchangeable barrels, letting a single receiver be rechambered across calibers from .222 Remington up to .300 Winchester Magnum.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3200 g (112.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1070 mm (42.13") |
| Barrel Length | 560 mm (22.05") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 13 N (2.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 3 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 850 m/s (2789 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 4200 J (3098 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .30-06 Springfield · primary — also known as 30-06, .30-06 Sprg, 7.62x63mm
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Cocking Decocker
- Features: Straight Pull Action, Short Bolt Throw, Interchangeable Barrels, Takedown, Enclosed Action Housing, Adjustable Trigger
Variants
- Merkel RX Helix Speedster — Lightweight
- Merkel RX Helix Explorer — Synthetic Stock
- Merkel RX Helix Black — Tactical
Production
Production years: 2010-present
Civilian hunting rifle; not military issue
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Merkel (Helix concept attributed to Sheikh Hamed of the Abu Dhabi royal family)
Notes
Calibers are grouped into Mini (.222/.223 Rem), Standard (.243 Win, 6.5x55 SE, .270 Win, 7x64, .308 Win, .30-06 Sprg, 8x57 IS, 9.3x62), and Magnum (7mm Rem Mag, .300/.338 Win Mag). Standard barrels are 560mm; magnums use 610mm. An optional TAR-GT trigger is adjustable from roughly 500 to 1,500 grams.
Background
The Helix straight-pull mechanism originated not with Merkel but with Sheikh Hamed of the Abu Dhabi royal family, whose concept for a short-throw geared bolt was engineered into a production rifle by the Suhl-based maker.